5 DIY Tips to Make Your Heating System Run Better
Posted on Wed, Feb 08, 2012 @ 08:30 AM
It is good practice to have your heat pump or furnace inspected 
annually (typically before the heating season) by a qualified technician to ensure the air handler is working properly and safely. But, there are also several things a homeowner can do to keep the heating system running at its best and to keep your home warm.
Here are some easy Do-it-Yourself tips to keep your heating system running efficiently:
1. Add insulation in the attic: If the attic insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists, you could use more insulation. The recommened insulation level is 12-15 inches in depth. Insulation is measured in R-value. Higher R-values mean more insulating power. More insulation means your heating system won't work as hard.
2. Seal Leaks: Many air leaks are hidden in attics, basements and crawlspaces. They are harder to find than leaks around windows and doors, but are likely the source of quite a bit of heat loss. Seal these leaks with caulk or spray foam. You will see a significant improvement in your home's comfort once you do this as much more of the heat your system is producing will stay in the house now.
3. Change the filter: This is the easiest and least expensive way to improve your heating system's efficiency. During heating season, make sure you check the filter at least once a month and change as necessary.
4. Sealing Ductwork: Ducts are used to distribute air throughout the house. In the typical house, as much as 20% of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks and poorly sealed connections. Some ducts are hidden behind walls and between floors and would be difficult to repair, but exposed ducts can be sealed without a lot of difficulty using duct sealant (also known as duct mastic).
5. Move the furniture: Take a look to see where your heat registers are. Registers might be behind the couch, bed, or blocked by long drapes. The warm air your furnace is producing won't reach the room efficiently if it's being impeded. Simply rearrange anything that is preventing the air to move through the room.
A home energy audit (also known as a home energy assessment) done by a qualified technician is still the best way to find all the areas of energy inefficiency in your home. The audit/assessment will include a blower door test and thermographic scan which will pinpoint the locations of air leakage. This information can then be used to formulate a plan to correct problem areas.
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